Everything You Need to Know About Sudbury Golden Hour

Hello, lovely couples! I’m Brooke Murray, your dedicated wedding photographer based in Sudbury. Today, I want to share with you one of my favorite photography secrets that can add a touch of magic to your wedding photos: the golden hour.

What is the Golden Hour?

The golden hour is a magical time of day that occurs shortly after sunrise and just before sunset. During this period, the sun is low in the sky, casting a warm, golden light that creates stunning effects in photographs. This soft, diffused light is perfect for capturing beautiful, natural-looking photos with rich, warm tones and long, soft shadows.

Why Golden Hour is Perfect for Wedding Photography

Golden hour light is incredibly flattering for portraits, making it ideal for wedding photography. Here’s why:

Soft Lighting: The light during the golden hour is softer and more diffused than the harsh midday sun, which means fewer harsh shadows and less squinting.

Warm Tones: The warm hues of golden hour light enhance skin tones and add a romantic glow to your photos.

Dramatic Backgrounds: The low angle of the sun creates long shadows and highlights textures, adding depth and drama to your backgrounds.

Natural Highlights: The natural highlights and shadows created by the golden hour light add dimension and interest to your photos, making them look more dynamic and engaging.

Timing the Golden Hour in Sudbury

Timing is everything when it comes to capturing the golden hour. In Sudbury, the time of sunset varies throughout the year. Here’s a handy guide to help you plan your wedding photography session around the golden hour:

• January: Sunset at 4:23 PM
• February: Sunset at 4:59 PM
• March: Sunset at 5:36 PM
• April: Sunset at 7:12 PM
• May: Sunset at 7:45 PM
• June: Sunset at 8:16 PM
• July: Sunset at 8:26 PM
• August: Sunset at 8:04 PM
• September: Sunset at 7:18 PM
• October: Sunset at 6:26 PM
• November: Sunset at 5:38 PM
• December: Sunset at 4:18 PM

Planning Your Photoshoot

To make the most of the golden hour, plan your photoshoot to start about an hour before sunset. This gives us plenty of time to get the perfect shots as the light changes. For example, if you’re getting married in July, we’d start shooting around 7:30 PM to capture the full range of golden hour lighting.

Tips for a Successful Golden Hour Photoshoot

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your golden hour photoshoot:

Be Ready Early

Golden hour doesn’t last long, so it’s important to be ready to shoot as soon as the light is right. Make sure hair and makeup are done, and outfits are ready before the golden hour begins.

Scout Your Location

Before the big day, I like to scout the location to find the best spots for golden hour photos. Look for open areas where the light can flow freely, and avoid locations with too many obstructions that can block the light.

Embrace the Light

Golden hour light is all about embracing the natural glow. Position yourselves so the light hits you from the side or behind to create beautiful backlighting and halos. This adds a dreamy, romantic effect to your photos.

Stay Relaxed and Natural

The best photos come from natural, relaxed moments. Enjoy this special time together, and let me capture the love and connection between you.

The Beauty of Different Seasons

Each season brings its unique charm to golden hour photography. Here’s a glimpse of what to expect in different months:

Winter (December – February)

Winter sunsets come early, providing a shorter but equally beautiful golden hour. The snow-covered landscape can reflect the warm tones, creating a magical winter wonderland effect. Just remember to bundle up!

Spring (March – May)

Spring brings longer days and vibrant colors as nature awakens. Blossoming flowers and fresh greenery add a beautiful backdrop to your photos.

Summer (June – August)

Summer offers the longest golden hours, giving us more time to capture stunning photos. The lush landscapes and warm temperatures make it a perfect time for outdoor shoots.

Fall (September – November)

Fall is my favorite season for golden hour photography. The rich, warm colors of the changing leaves complement the golden light perfectly, creating a breathtaking, romantic atmosphere.

Golden hour is truly a magical time for wedding photography. The soft, warm light enhances your natural beauty and adds a touch of romance to your photos. By planning your photoshoot around this special time, we can create stunning, timeless images that you’ll cherish forever.

If you’re planning your wedding in Sudbury and want to capture the magic of the golden hour, I’d love to help you make it happen. Contact me today to discuss your wedding photography needs and how we can make your special day even more unforgettable.

Thank you for reading, and I look forward to capturing your beautiful moments!